The buzz around this year’s Textile Exchange conference continues. The message from Pasadena was clear: transformation is within reach. From regenerative practices to circularity that benefits all, it was a clarion call to trade extractive growth for a future that thrives on restoration and collaboration.
This edition of the conference at Pasadena in California didn’t just present ideas, it challenged an entire industry to rethink its purpose and methods. Under the theme ‘The Case for Change’, leaders gathered to address the staggering impact of fashion, a sector responsible for around 10% of global emissions, much of which is tied to the very materials that shape our products.
For those driven by innovation and bold problem-solving, the energy felt like a launchpad, an opportunity to reimagine fashion not just as an industry, but as a movement for lasting change.
As a material-first design, innovation, and sustainability strategist, the issues that were discussed are my daily focus. Yet, the conference renewed my sense of purpose and possibility. I was energised by the people, innovations, and insights driving our industry forward.
I will now share the key themes, highlights, and takeaways from this impactful event, with the hope of sparking optimism and motivation to keep fighting the fight for meaningful, sustainable change.
Building the people-powered infrastructure of transformation
American writer, climate change activist, and Executive Director and Co-Founder of the All We Can Save Project, Katherine Wilkinson’s words resonated strongly: “People are the critical infrastructure of transformation.” This message was palpable throughout the event. Across sessions, we heard stories of collaboration that stretched from farmers and scientists to brands and innovators. Relationships, both new and longstanding, are essential to the work of sustainable change. As I reconnected with familiar faces and met new colleagues, it was clear that when we share our knowledge, resources, and strategies, we share the burdens but also the breakthroughs.
- Redefining resilience | From soil health to circular systems: Fashion has always been rooted in the soil and farming, but it must now actively support the planet’s resilience through it. At the opening reception, I spoke to Vikrant Giri, Founder of Gallant International, about the importance of fashion’s investments into regenerative agricultural practices and circular supply systems as well as the industry’s valuable opportunity to help rebuild ecosystems and biodiversity and tackle climate impacts. In one of the breakout sessions, the focus was on organic cotton farming highlighting advancements like biochar and organic manure, practices that enhance soil health and climate resilience. The farmers in these sessions emerged as true heroes, carrying generational knowledge that is essential for real impact.
- From risk mitigation to opportunity—The business case for climate action: The keynote by Andrew Winston—advisor/speaker on megatrends and sustainability; ranked the #3 management thinker in the world by @Thinkers50, board trustee at Forum for the Future—on climate action was a standout. He emphasised that sustainability can no longer be an isolated element of business; it must be an integral part of all operations. Climate action is no longer just about risk mitigation; it’s an opportunity for growth, resilience, and profitability. It was a powerful message for those of us working toward integrating sustainability in every facet of the business, from reducing GHG emissions to embedding sustainable practices across operations.
